Dubai, Sep 11:
Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi rebels claimed that Saudi-backed forces carried out 40 airstrikes on several areas in the country, as fighting intensified between the Houthis and forces supporting Yemen’s government.
Al-Masirah TV, which is controlled by the Houthis, reported that the alleged airstrikes targeted areas in Taiz, Jawf, Hodeida and Marib provinces. The Associated Press said it could not independently verify the claim, while there was no immediate response from the Saudi-backed forces.
The claims came amid growing concerns over a major escalation in Yemen. The Houthis have been engaged in clashes with government forces while also carrying out attacks on oil facilities and utilities in neighbouring Saudi Arabia, according to reports.
Meanwhile, several residents said Houthi fighters had entered Yemen’s strategic Red Sea port city of Mokha. The development could bring the rebels closer to shipping routes through the critical waterway leading to the Red Sea, according to the report.